I–ii–V–I in B Major
Pattern: I – ii – V – I
Chords: B – C♯m – F♯ – B
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | B (details) | major | Tonic |
| ii | C♯m (details) | minor | Supertonic |
| V | F♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
| I | B (details) | major | Tonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through B (Tonic) → C♯m (Supertonic) → F♯ (Dominant) → B (Tonic).
The most straightforward jazz cadence, framing a ii–V–I within a complete tonic-to-tonic phrase. Its simplicity makes it an ideal vehicle for learning jazz improvisation and chord substitution techniques.
Song Examples
- Autumn Leaves — Joseph Kosma
- Blue Bossa — Kenny Dorham